pH is a scale that measures how acidic or basic a solution is. It ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is considered neutral, like pure water. A pH lower than 7 indicates acidity, while a pH higher than 7 indicates alkalinity. For example, lemon juice has a low pH, making it acidic, while baking soda has a high pH, making it basic. Understanding pH is important in many areas, including gardening, cooking, and health. In gardening, the pH of soil affects plant growth, while in cooking, it can influence flavors. In health, maintaining a balanced pH in the body is essential for overall well-being.